From Traditional English Fare to Vegetarianism
For many rock and roll legends, the image of partying and excess is as integral to their story as the music itself. However, Ringo Starr's culinary journey tells a more personal story rooted in his working-class Liverpool upbringing and shaped by long-term health concerns. His food preferences reveal a transition from traditional British comfort foods to a strict, health-conscious vegetarianism that has contributed to his remarkable longevity.
The Early Years: Steak, Chips, and Beans
In the early 1960s, Ringo Starr, like many of his contemporaries, enjoyed simple and hearty meals. During the height of Beatlemania, when the band would dine out, their typical order was often steak and chips or eggs and chips. Ringo, known for being a picky eater from an early age, stuck to what he knew and liked. He was not a fan of adventurous or spicy food, a trait that became a defining—and well-documented—aspect of his culinary habits.
This aversion to spice became famously evident during The Beatles' 1968 trip to Rishikesh, India, to study with the Maharishi Mahesh Yogi. While the other members embraced the local cuisine, Ringo, wary of unfamiliar flavors and potential digestive issues, made sure to bring his own provisions. He packed a suitcase filled with tins of Heinz baked beans, which he then consumed alongside specially prepared eggs cooked without spices. This anecdote has become canonical in Beatles lore, perfectly illustrating his steadfast loyalty to his favorite, unadventurous foods.
Food Allergies and the Avoidance of Curry and Pizza
Beyond simple preference, Ringo's dietary choices are influenced by specific food allergies. The drummer is allergic to both garlic and onions, two of the most common ingredients in global cuisine. This explains his long-standing aversion to curries, a staple of Indian food, as well as a surprising fact that recently came to light: he has never eaten pizza. In a 2025 interview on Jimmy Kimmel Live!, Starr confirmed he had never tried pizza, much to the studio audience's shock, explaining his reasoning stemmed from his ingredient sensitivities. This makes his 1995 appearance in a Pizza Hut commercial a comedic irony, as he was seen holding a slice but reportedly did not take a bite.
The Vegetarian Transition
Inspired by his bandmate Paul McCartney and his late wife Linda, Ringo adopted a vegetarian lifestyle later in life. This decision was part of a larger push towards wellness, which included giving up alcohol and drugs, getting regular exercise, and maintaining a positive outlook. His diet shifted from British comfort food to a healthier, more plant-based approach. He has been a committed vegetarian for decades, often citing the positive impact it has had on his health and youthful appearance.
In recent interviews, Ringo has been very open about his current eating habits. He frequently mentions his love for specific fruits and vegetables that form the cornerstone of his diet. These aren't exotic superfoods, but simple, healthy produce that he has come to rely on.
Ringo's Modern Diet Staples
- Broccoli: Ringo has stated that he has "broccoli with everything". This nutrient-rich vegetable is a cornerstone of his current regimen, providing fiber, antioxidants, and a host of vitamins and minerals. He has publicly promoted his love for broccoli as a secret to his youthful energy.
- Blueberries: Another daily staple for Starr are blueberries, which he eats every morning. These berries are packed with antioxidants and are a simple, healthy way to start the day. He often emphasizes that he simply eats "stuff that [he feels] is good for me".
- Fruits and Vegetables: Beyond broccoli and blueberries, Ringo eats a wide variety of fruits and vegetables, maintaining a diverse and colorful diet. This abundance of produce provides the essential nutrients he needs to stay active and healthy into his 80s.
- Avoidance of Processed Food: In a 2019 interview, Starr advised, “you just don't eat a lot of crap”. This simple philosophy underlies his avoidance of processed junk food, which he has replaced with whole, plant-based foods. This shift is a key reason for his continued good health and vitality.
A Comparison of Ringo's Dietary Habits
| Aspect | Early Beatles Era (1960s) | Later Life (Present) |
|---|---|---|
| Core Meals | Traditional British comfort food | Health-conscious vegetarian meals |
| Favorite Dishes | Baked beans, eggs, sausages, steak and chips | Broccoli-based dishes, blueberries, fruits, and vegetables |
| Dietary Philosophy | Sticking to familiar, unadventurous flavors | Choosing foods that are "good for me" |
| Food Allergies | Sensitive to spicy food; allergies to garlic and onions | Still strictly avoids garlic, onions, spicy food, and pizza |
| Major Influences | Working-class Liverpool roots | Paul and Linda McCartney; focus on health |
The Evolution of a Rock Legend's Plate
Ringo Starr's food choices provide a fascinating glimpse into the life of a rock and roll icon whose tastes evolved dramatically over the course of his career. He started as a quintessential British working-class lad, with simple tastes that mirrored his background. His notorious aversion to spice and unknown ingredients cemented his preference for comforting and familiar meals. This led to the famous baked beans anecdote from his time in India, an indelible image of his personality.
However, as he matured, and with influences from those around him and his own health concerns, his diet shifted toward the proactive wellness of vegetarianism. This later-life commitment to a clean, plant-based diet, centered around vegetables like broccoli and fruits like blueberries, has become a testament to his dedication to well-being. The man who carried a can of beans across a continent is now a healthy aging advocate, crediting his vibrant lifestyle to his simple, vegetarian fare. His dietary path proves that even the most grounded habits can be changed for the better, even for a global superstar. For more insights into Ringo's life and health, read what he shared with Rolling Stone.
Conclusion
In summary, there is no single answer to "What was Ringo Starr's favorite food?" The answer is twofold: initially, it was the humble baked bean and other traditional British fare that he cherished for its familiarity and comfort. In his later years, it has become the wholesome and nutrient-rich broccoli and blueberries, chosen for their contribution to his enduring health. His culinary journey from a fussy eater to a devoted vegetarian serves as a testament to his adaptability and enduring commitment to a long and healthy life. Peace and love—and plenty of vegetables—seem to be his recipe for success.
